This blend has been trusted for generations to protect gear and extend its life. It waterproofs cloth, rope, leather, and wood while also working as an emergency fire starter. The balance of beeswax and tallow creates a spreadable paste that holds up in the field and can be made from ingredients you produce yourself. It is safe on skin and can even be used as a lip balm or hand salve in a pinch.
Ingredients
- 2 parts beeswax (for hardness and water resistance)
- 1 part tallow (for softness and flexibility)
- Optional: a pinch of camphor shavings (insect and mold deterrent, fire starting boost)
- Optional: a pinch of pine resin (extra tackiness and added waterproofing)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon menthol crystals per cup of paste (insect deterrent, cooling effect, fire ignition aid)
How to Make It
- Tallow: You can buy pre-rendered tallow that is hard and white, or render your own. If rendering, strain carefully until it is clean, dry, and free of cracklings.
- Melt beeswax slowly in a tin can or double boiler.
- Stir in the tallow until completely blended.
- Remove from heat and add any optional ingredients. Stir well.
- Pour into small tins or jars. We like to use old Ice Chips tins, but Altoids tins work just as well. You can also use lip balm containers, salve tins, or small mason jars.
How to Use
- Waterproofing cloth, leather, or canvas: Rub on evenly and warm with gentle heat until it soaks in. Let cool.
- Conditioning wooden handles and tools: Apply a thin coat, warm lightly to penetrate, then wipe off excess.
- Fire starter: Scrape off a small amount and place under kindling. The paste burns hot and steady. Camphor, resin, or menthol will extend the burn and make ignition easier.
- Skin and lips: Because it is made from food-safe and body-safe ingredients, this paste can be used as an emergency salve for cracked hands, chapped lips, or minor skin irritation. Menthol crystals add a cooling effect, while tallow and beeswax lock in moisture and create a protective barrier.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store in sealed tins or glass jars.
- Shelf life: up to 1 to 2 years at room temperature if tallow is pure and moisture free. Longer if stored in a cool, dark place or kept frozen.
When to Use It
- Sealing boots, gloves, and rope before exposure to wet conditions.
- Protecting tool handles from swelling or cracking.
- Emergency fire starting when other tinder is damp or unreliable.
- Adding a layer of protection against insects when using menthol or camphor.
- As an all-purpose balm for lips, dry skin, and cracked hands when no other option is available.